Another Interview so soon? I wanted to make up for last minute cancellation I had a few weeks ago, so here is another poet for you to dive into their habits, processes and get to know.
Ivy Wilson, also known as “ivywilsonwrites” on Instagram. The 27 year old female lives with her parents in Essex and what she does for a day job was something she preferred not to say, other than dropping the hint it may have something involving graphics. Ofcourse the first thought that popped into my head was MI5/MI6? Ivy currently shares her works exclusively on instagram, although she only got the confidence to even share her work a year ago. Her writing process is nothing fancy, just writes when she has time. Which with working a typical 9-5 job so happens to be mostly at night. Ivy aims to write a poem every night, ( whether it turns out to be good or bad ) and isn’t picky about where she writes it, although most is written from her room. The habit of writing every night may have something to do with a poetry challenge she did to write a poem every day for 30 days which kickstarted her journey into poetry. With the aim of first reaching 1000 followers on instagram, Ivy wisely would like an established following before she thinks about a collection; she certainly has enough material to put a collection out already. She also, like most writers has the aspiration to write a novel, however understands this takes a lot of planning and preparation first, so may start that process later on in the year. Fingers crossed for you Ivy.
When asked how she would describe her writing, Ivy said that as I could probably tell it’s quite serious themes. In order to create her work Ivy likes to place how she is feeling into a fictional situation and ask herself “How would it feel to be that person.” A favourite of mine is “Shades of Green”. She loves adding her simple yet effective graphics to her words, to create an association or give hints to the reader. I agree that this can be a very effective tool, as it can be so frustrating reading or hearing a poem and not having a toffee what they are talking about; throw a simple picture into the mix and you’ve opened a door to your audience. Ivy’s simple graphics that she does herself works so well because it produces the balance of giving us readers an opening without giving too much away.
Ivy loves writing so much that when asked the typical desert island question; you’re stranded on a desert island, what are the three things you are hoping to have? Her answer; a notebook, pen and a mirror. You may be slightly confused as I was, a mirror? Ivy said it may be thinking too deeply into the question, but the mirror is for self reflection to aid her with writing. I admit, a mirror wouldn’t be my 3rd item of choice, mine would likely be a jar of hot sauce or mustard but basically Ivy would be happy as long as she has the tools to write.
So here is a little bit about Ivy outside of writing. She not long ago finished reading the book “Little Fires Everywhere” by Celeste Ng ( which she rated very highly) and is currently reading “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott. A big contrast there. Ivy explained it was because she prefers contemporary books however she is trying to broaden her horizons, by trying to read some classics; something she has never really been into. Ivy’s musical taste is mostly Indie rock music, mentioning Arctic Monkeys as a particular favourite. She is fond of Thai Food and Ramen, enjoys running and is a big re-watcher of tv shows or films that she has already watched. Ivy is currently rewatching “Community” on Netflix. I have to agree with Ivy, there is certainly a comfort in rewatching tv shows you’ve already watched numerous times; there are no surprises and you know what you’re going to get. My rewatch go to is the tv series “Criminal Minds”. It never gets old, even if I could tell you who the killer is before the opening credits have even played out.
Ivy’s inspiration outside of writers or writing communities would be the MP Harriet Harman. Ivy is really into her politics and explained that Harriet Harman is a name that even those who aren’t really into politics (like me), would likely have at least heard of before. Ivy’s reason for her choice was because Harman is someone that despite being a widely known politician, stays very grounded and connected to her constituency, where her career all started. We had a brief chat about what’s been in the news recently about Rishi Sunak saying that he fasts for 36 hours at the start of every week because of his upbringing and religious observance. I appreciate that despite being the UK’s prime minister he is still staying connected to his culture and what’s important to him as a person. I think there is a lesson to be learnt in that, whether you are a fan of him, the conservatives, politicians or not.
I felt I had a lot in common with Ivy, not just because we are similar in age and similar tastes but perhaps more to do with what writing gives both of us; freedom in getting our feelings onto a page. You can check out Ivy’s Instagram page here. Be sure that you do. Be sure to keep an eye out for the next interview posted onto here, trust me it won’t be too far away.
Megan Layley 
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